Signal Mountain Summit
4.7(660)google
MountainRoad TripScenic Lookout
Overview
Signal Mountain Summit is accessible via a winding driving road that climbs hundreds of feet above the valley floor of Jackson Hole. Once at the top, visitors are treated to two distinct and stunning vistas: one overlooking the entire jagged Teton Range, and another offering a vast look across the Snake River overlooking the wide expanses of the sagebrush valley and distant mountain horizons.
Practical Info
Every dayOpen 24 hours
Suggested DurationAbout 1-1.5 hours
Best TimeOpen from mid-May to October. Sunset is the definitive best time to visit; the Jackson Lake Overlook at the top provides sweeping, unobstructed views of Jackson Lake, the winding Snake River, and the sun dipping behind the Tetons.
Getting ThereLocated near Signal Mountain Lodge. Turn off Teton Park Road onto Signal Mountain Summit Road, and drive the winding paved mountain road for about 5 miles directly to the summit parking lot at the top.
Travel Tips
- The road to the summit is narrow, steep, and packed with tight switchbacks. Motor vehicles or trailers exceeding 30 feet in length are strictly prohibited; park rangers enforce this rule with hefty fines due to narrow turn radii.
- Lacking artificial lighting and highly prone to heavy snow, this alpine road closes completely from November to mid-May. In summer, nighttime temperatures drop below freezing, and wildlife often cross; drive slowly if visiting for stargazing.
Photo Tips
Photo Spots
- The summit parking lot itself does not offer the best views. Walk back about 0.2 miles along the ridge trail to the Jackson Lake Overlook for an unobstructed panoramic view of Jackson River, the valley, and the Tetons—ideal for late afternoon photography.
Reviews
Positive
- You can drive directly to the summit, which commands an unmatched panoramic view of Jackson Lake, the Snake River, and the Tetons.
- Compared to the crowded sites below, this spot has fewer tourists, letting you sit quietly at the peak and enjoy natural peace.
- The winding mountain road is well-paved, the dense pine forests along the way are beautiful, and you might spot a black bear if lucky.
- The overlooks at the top and midway are equipped with very clear geographic plaques to help identify distant peaks.
Heads up
- The road to the summit is very narrow with extremely sharp curves and no center divider, requiring high alertness from large vehicle drivers.
- This road strictly prohibits trailers and large RVs; travelers with restricted vehicle types will unfortunately miss out.
- The summit parking has only a dozen or so spots; during peak hours, it's very hard for cars to turn around or wait in the narrow area.
- If it's cloudy or foggy, the summit will be completely socked in with mist, leaving you with a blank white wall and zero views.